EP3543575B1 - A clamp assembly and method of clamping - Google Patents
A clamp assembly and method of clamping Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3543575B1 EP3543575B1 EP19163773.5A EP19163773A EP3543575B1 EP 3543575 B1 EP3543575 B1 EP 3543575B1 EP 19163773 A EP19163773 A EP 19163773A EP 3543575 B1 EP3543575 B1 EP 3543575B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- curved portion
- tube
- free end
- flange
- clamp assembly
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 8
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000003351 stiffener Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 4
- 229910000990 Ni alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002452 interceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L23/00—Flanged joints
- F16L23/04—Flanged joints the flanges being connected by members tensioned in the radial plane
- F16L23/08—Flanged joints the flanges being connected by members tensioned in the radial plane connection by tangentially arranged pin and nut
- F16L23/10—Flanged joints the flanges being connected by members tensioned in the radial plane connection by tangentially arranged pin and nut with a pivoting or swinging pin
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
- F16L3/22—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting a number of parallel pipes at intervals
- F16L3/237—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting a number of parallel pipes at intervals for two pipes
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
- F16L3/14—Hangers in the form of bands or chains
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
- F16L3/22—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting a number of parallel pipes at intervals
- F16L3/223—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting a number of parallel pipes at intervals each support having one transverse base for supporting the pipes
- F16L3/2235—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting a number of parallel pipes at intervals each support having one transverse base for supporting the pipes each pipe being supported by a common element fastened to the base
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
- F16L3/26—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting the pipes all along their length, e.g. pipe channels or ducts
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L21/00—Joints with sleeve or socket
- F16L21/02—Joints with sleeve or socket with elastic sealing rings between pipe and sleeve or between pipe and socket, e.g. with rolling or other prefabricated profiled rings
- F16L21/05—Joints with sleeve or socket with elastic sealing rings between pipe and sleeve or between pipe and socket, e.g. with rolling or other prefabricated profiled rings comprising a first ring being placed on a male part and a second ring in the sleeve or socket
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L21/00—Joints with sleeve or socket
- F16L21/06—Joints with sleeve or socket with a divided sleeve or ring clamping around the pipe-ends
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to clamps, and in particular, to V-band clamps.
- connection of components may require connection to other components via clamping.
- connecting aircraft components includes fitting clamps into the spaces surrounding such components. Clamps may also need to be able to withstand harsh temperature and pressure conditions.
- aircraft components can be connected using V-band clamps.
- V-band clamps may be difficult to install for some applications due to space or access limitations.
- Clamp assemblies are taught in CN 103 557 374 , US 5115542 and EP 2594 835 .
- a clamp assembly is provided as defined by claim 1.
- a method of clamping axially aligned portions of a first structure and axially aligned portions of a second structure is provided as defined by claim 12.
- the present disclosure describes a double V-band clamp, or clamp assembly, that has two rings between a hinge and a bolt, or other fastening arrangement, to join flanges of a first upper aircraft component, or first structure, and flanges of a second lower aircraft component, or second structure, spaced from the first upper aircraft component while only requiring one hinge and one fastening arrangement.
- the clamp accommodates smaller spaces, weighs less, has fewer parts, results in faster installation, and eliminates unreachable or hard to access areas.
- a web between the two rings enhances structural stability of the clamp.
- FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a clamp assembly, or double V-band clamp, 14 on first aircraft component 10 and separate second aircraft component 12.
- FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of double V-band clamp 14 on first aircraft component 10 and separate second aircraft component 12 taken along line B-B of FIG. 1A. FIGS. 1A and 1B will be discussed together.
- First aircraft component, or first structure, 10 includes first tube 16 having first flange 18 (shown in FIG. IB), second tube 20 having second flange 22, and seal 23.
- Second aircraft component, or second structure, 12 includes third tube 24 having third flange 26 (shown in FIG. IB), fourth tube 28 having fourth flange 30, and seal 31.
- Double V-band clamp 14 includes hinge 32, fastening arrangement 34, first arm 36 (shown in FIG.
- Hinge 32 includes left pin 68 (shown in FIG. 1A ), right pin 70, and link 72.
- Fastening arrangement 34 includes bolt 74, connector 76, and nut 78 (shown in FIG. 1A ).
- First aircraft component, or upper aircraft component, 10 is separated from second aircraft component, or lower aircraft component, 12 by space S.
- First aircraft component 10 is parallel to second aircraft component 12.
- first aircraft component 10 is equal in diameter to second aircraft component 12.
- First aircraft component 10 and second aircraft component 12 are positioned within double V-band clamp 14.
- First aircraft component 10 has first tube, or rear portion, 16 at a rear of first aircraft component 10.
- First tube 16 is tube-like.
- first tube 16 is a duct.
- first tube 16 may be any suitable aircraft component.
- First flange 18 is connected at a front end of first tube 16.
- First flange 18 has a male profile.
- First aircraft component 10 has second tube, or front portion, 20 at a front of upper aircraft component 10.
- Second tube 20 is tube-like.
- second tube 20 is a duct that mates with first tube 16.
- second tube 20 may be any suitable aircraft component that mates with first tube 16.
- Second flange 22 is connected at a rear end of second tube 20.
- Second flange 22 has a female profile.
- First tube 16 and second tube 20 are separate, axially aligned portions of first aircraft component 10 having about the same diameter, and first flange 18 and second flange 22 are shaped to interlock.
- first flange 18 and second flange 22 are interlocked, an annular space is formed between first flange 18 and second flange 22 that is radially outward from inner diameters of the tube-like portions of first tube 16 and second tube 20.
- Seal 23 may be positioned between first flange 18 and second flange 22.
- Second aircraft component 12 has third tube, or rear portion, 24 at a rear of second aircraft component 12.
- Third tube 24 is tube-like. In this embodiment, third tube 24 is a duct. In alternate embodiments, third tube 24 may be any suitable aircraft component.
- Third flange 26 is connected at a front end of third tube 24. Third flange 26 has a male profile.
- Second aircraft component 12 has fourth tube, or front portion, 28 at a front of second aircraft component 12.
- Fourth tube 28 is tube-like. In this embodiment, fourth tube 28 is a duct that mates with third tube 24. In alternate embodiments, fourth tube 28 may be any suitable aircraft component that mates with third tube 24.
- Fourth flange 30 is connected at a rear end of fourth tube 28. Fourth flange 30 has a female profile.
- Third tube 24 and fourth tube 28 are separate, axially aligned portions of second aircraft component 12 having about the same diameter, and third flange 26 and fourth flange 30 are shaped to interlock.
- third flange 26 and fourth flange 30 are interlocked, an annular space is formed between third flange 26 and fourth flange 30 that is radially outward from inner diameters of the tube-like portions of third tube 24 and fourth tube 28.
- Seal 31 may be positioned between third flange 26 and fourth flange 30.
- Double V-band clamp 14 has hinge 32 at a first, or upper, end of double V-band clamp 14 and fastening arrangement 34 at a second, or lower, end of double V-band clamp 14.
- First, or left, arm 36 extends from hinge 32 to fastening arrangement 34.
- First arm 36 is a single unitary piece.
- First arm 36 may be made of nickel alloy, stainless steel, aluminum, non-metallic material, or any other suitable material.
- First arm 36 has first hinge end, or upper end portion, 38 connected to hinge 32, and first free end, or lower end portion, 40 connectable to fastening arrangement 34.
- First, or left, web 42 of first arm 36 is located between first hinge end 38 and first free end 40. In this embodiment, first web 42 is triangular.
- first web 42 may be any suitable shape.
- First curved portion, or upper curved portion, 44 of first arm 36 is connected to first hinge end 38 and first web 42 such that first curved portion 44 is between first hinge end 38 and first web 42.
- First curved portion 44 has a V-shaped cross-section.
- Second curved portion, or lower curved portion, 46 of first arm 36 is connected to first free end 40 and first web 42 such that second curved portion 46 is between first free end 40 and first web 42.
- first web 42 is between first curved portion 44 and second curved portion 46.
- a first, or upper, end of second curved portion 46 is also connected to a second, or lower, end of first curved portion 44.
- first web 42 may extend all the way between second curved portion 46 and first curved portion 44 such that second curved portion 46 does not contact first curved portion 44.
- the distance between first curved portion 44 and second curved portion 46 varies based on the application in which double V-band clamp 14 is utilized.
- Second curved portion 46 has a V-shaped cross-section.
- Second, or right, arm 48 extends from hinge 32 to fastening arrangement 34.
- Second arm 48 is a single unitary piece.
- Second arm 48 may be made of nickel alloy, stainless steel, aluminum, non-metallic material, or any other suitable material.
- Second arm 48 has second hinge end, or upper end portion, 50 connected to hinge 32, and second free end, or lower end portion, 52 connectable to fastening arrangement 34.
- Second, or right, web 54 of second arm 48 is located between second hinge end 50 and second free end 52. In this embodiment, second web 54 is triangular. In alternate embodiments, second web 54 may be any suitable shape.
- Third curved portion, or upper curved portion, 56 of second arm 48 is connected to second hinge end 50 and second web 54 such that third curved portion 56 is between second hinge end 50 and second web 54.
- Third curved portion 56 has a V-shaped cross-section.
- Fourth curved portion, or lower curved portion, 58 of second arm 48 is connected to second free end 52 and second web 54 such that fourth curved portion 58 is between second free end 52 and second web 54.
- second web 54 is between third curved portion 56 and fourth curved portion 58.
- a first, or upper, end of fourth curved portion 58 is also connected to a second, or lower, end of third curved portion 56, the distance between fourth curved portion 58 and third curved portion 56 of second arm 48 being equal to the distance between second curved portion 46 and first curved portion 44 of first arm 36.
- second web 54 may extend all the way between fourth curved portion 58 and third curved portion 56 such that fourth curved portion 58 does not contact third curved portion 56.
- the distance between third curved portion 56 and fourth curved portion 58 varies based on the application in which double V-band clamp 14 is utilized.
- Fourth curved portion 58 has a V-shaped cross-section.
- first hinge end 38 and second hinge end 50 both have U-shaped cross-sections such that a space is formed between first hinge end 38 and second hinge end 50.
- first hinge end 38 and second hinge end 50 may have any suitable shape.
- first free end 40 and second free end 52 are shaped to form a slot that extends between first free end 40 and second free end 52.
- first free end 40 and second free end 52 may have any suitable shape.
- First curved portion 44 of first arm 36 and third curved portion 56 of second arm 48 form first ring, or upper ring, 60. Due to the V-shaped cross-sections of first curved portion 44 and third curved portion 56, first ring 60 has first inner diameter D1 and second inner diameter D2. Second inner diameter D2 is greater than first inner diameter D1. First inner diameter D1 of first ring 60 is between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters). First ring 60 defines first space, or upper space, 62. First space 62 is at a center of first ring 60. First ring 60 is configured to fit around first flange 18 of first tube 16 of first aircraft component 10 and second flange 22 of second tube 20 of first aircraft component 10.
- first curved portion 44 and third curved portion 56 have V-shaped cross-sections that hold first flange 18 of first tube 16 and second flange 22 of second tube 20.
- first space 62 is sized to accommodate first tube 16 and second tube 20 of first aircraft component 10.
- Second curved portion 46 of first arm 36 and fourth curved portion 58 of second arm 48 form second ring, or lower ring, 64. Due to the V-shaped cross-sections of second curved portion 46 and fourth curved portion 58, second ring 64 has first inner diameter D3 and second inner diameter D4. Second inner diameter D4 is greater than first inner diameter D3.
- First inner diameter D3 of lower ring 64 is between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters). In this embodiment, first inner diameter D3 equals first inner diameter D1, and second inner diameter D4 equals second inner diameter D2. In alternate embodiments, first inner diameters D1 and D3 may not be equal and second inner diameters D2 and D4 may not be equal.
- Second ring 64 defines second space, or lower space, 66.
- Second space 66 is at a center of second ring 64.
- Second ring 64 is configured to fit around third flange 26 of third tube 24 of second aircraft component 12 and fourth flange 30 of fourth tube 28 of second aircraft component 12.
- second curved portion 46 and fourth curved portion 58 have V-shaped cross-sections that hold third flange 26 of third tube 24 and fourth flange 30 of fourth tube 28.
- second space 66 is sized to accommodate third tube 24 and fourth tube 28 of second aircraft component 12.
- first ring 60 and second ring 64 are the same size. In alternate embodiments, first ring 60 and second ring 64 are different sizes.
- First ring 60 and second ring 64 are located in a common plane.
- Hinge 32 pivotably connects first hinge end 38 of first arm 36 and second hinge end 50 of second arm 48.
- Hinge 32 has left pin 68 positioned in first hinge end 38 of first arm 36.
- Left pin 68 extends through an opening in a front of first hinge end 38 and an opening in a rear of first hinge end 38.
- Right pin 70 of hinge 32 is positioned in second hinge end 50 of second arm 48.
- Right pin 70 extends through an opening in a front of second hinge end 50 and an opening in a rear of second hinge end 50.
- Link 72 extends between first hinge end 38 of first arm 36 and second hinge end 50 of second arm 48. More specifically, link 72 is positioned in the space formed by first hinge end 38 and second hinge end 50. Link 72 is connected to left pin 68 and right pin 70.
- hinge 32 may be any suitable hinge.
- Fastening arrangement 34 can releasably connect first free end 40 of first arm 36 to second free end 52 of second arm 48.
- Fastening arrangement 34 has bolt 74 positionable within the slot defined by first free end 40 of first arm 36 and second free end 52 of second arm 48.
- bolt 74 is a T-bolt.
- Bolt 74 has a right portion positionable through openings in second free end 52 of second arm 48. The right portion of bolt 74 extends through an opening in a front of second free end 52 and an opening in a rear of second free end 52.
- a left portion of bolt 74 extends through the slot defined by second free end 52 and first free end 40 such that the left portion of bolt 74 extends past first free end 40.
- bolt 74 may be any suitable bolt or fastening arrangement 34 may not include bolt 74.
- Connector 76 is U-shaped and extends from a front of second free end 52 around first free end 40 to a rear of second free end 52.
- a front end of connector 76 is positioned around a front end of the right portion of bolt 74 and a rear end of connector 76 is positioned around a rear end of the right portion of bolt 74.
- the left portion of bolt 74 extends through connector 76.
- fastening arrangement 34 may not include connector 76.
- Nut 78 is positionable on the left portion of bolt 74 that extends past first free end 40 and connector 76.
- nut 78 is a self-locking nut.
- nut 78 may be any suitable nut.
- fastening arrangement 34 may be any suitable fastening device.
- Double V-band clamp 14 is used to clamp first tube 16 to second tube 20 and to clamp third tube 24 to fourth tube 28.
- First arm 36 and second arm 48 specifically free ends 40 and 52, are separated from each other by pivoting first arm 36 and/or second arm 48 along left pin 68 and/or right pin 70, respectively, of hinge 32. Separating first arm 36 and second arm 48 opens double V-band clamp 14.
- double V-band clamp 14 opens like a clamshell. Once double V-band clamp 14 is placed in an open position, double V-band clamp 14 is positioned around first flange flange 18 and second flange 22 of first tube 16 and second tube 20 of first aircraft component 10 and around third flange 26 and fourth flange 30 of third tube 24 and fourth tube 28 of second aircraft component 12.
- Double V-band clamp 14 has first ring 60 that surround first aircraft component 10 and second ring 64 that surround second aircraft component 12. More specifically, first curved portion 44 and third curved portion 56 encircle first aircraft component 10, and second curved portion 46 and fourth curved portion 58 encircle second aircraft component 12. As such, first aircraft component 10 is located in first space 62, and second aircraft component 12 is located in second space 66.
- First flange 18 and second flange 22 extend past inner diameter D1 of first ring 60 into a space formed by the V-shaped cross-section of first curved portion 44 and third curved portion 56, and third flange 26 and fourth flange 30 extend past inner diameter D3 of second ring 64 into a space formed by the V-shaped cross-section of second curved portion 46 and fourth curved portion 58.
- closing double V-band clamp 14 secures first flange 18 and second flange 22 together and secures third flange 26 and fourth flange 30 together.
- first free end 40 is connected to second free end 52 at fastening arrangement 34.
- Bolt 74 is positioned to extend into the slot formed by second free end 52 and first free end 40.
- Nut 78 is positioned on a left end portion of bolt 74, and a wrench is used to move nut 78 closer to first free end 40 along threading of bolt 74, tightening bolt 74.
- second free end 52 of second arm 48 and first free end 40 of first arm 36 are drawn closer together. Tightening bolt 74 clamps first tube 16 to second tube 20 and third tube 24 to fourth tube 28.
- Tightening bolt 74 also moves first flange 18 closer to second flange 22 and third flange 26 closer to fourth flange 30 to seal first tube 16 and second tube 20 and third tube 24 and fourth tube 28. More specifically, first flange 18 and second flange 22 and third flange 26 and fourth flange 30 fit snugly into curved portions 44 and 56 and 46 and 58 between first inner diameters D1 and D3 and second inner diameters D2 and D3 of first ring 60 and second ring 64, respectively. As such, V-shaped cross-sections apply an axial load of first flange 18 toward second flange 22 and an axial load of third flange 26 toward fourth flange 30. The axial loads cause sealing engagement between first flange 18 and second flange 22 and between third flange 26 and fourth flange 30. As a result, first tube 16 and second tube 20 and third tube 24 and fourth tube 28 are forced together in sealing engagement.
- Double V-band clamp 14 is particularly useful for high temperature and pressure applications because it is shaped to provide a tight seal and can be made of nickel alloy, stainless steel, aluminum, non-metallic material, or any other suitable material.
- First web 42 and second web 54 act as stiffeners, or reinforcing structures, for double V-band clamp 14.
- double V-band clamp 14 is capable of withstanding tightening of bolt 74.
- first web 42 and second web 54 prevent double V-band clamp 14 from bending as bolt 74 is being tightened.
- First web 42 and second web 54 have a thickness that provides proper stiffness for a particular application in which double V-band clamp 14 is being utilized. As such, first web 42 and second web 54 may even protrude out as far as a tangent to first aircraft component 10 and second aircraft component 12 without interfering with other aircraft components.
- Double V-band clamp 14 joins first flange 18 and second flange 22 of first tube 16 and second tube 20 of first aircraft component 10 and joins third flange 26 and fourth flange 30 of third tube 24 and fourth tube 28 of second aircraft component 12 using a single hinge 32 and a single fastening arrangement 34.
- V-band clamps include one ring between a hinge and a fastener, and can be too bulky for some configurations where multiple clamps are needed in a small space. Because double V-band clamp 14 has first ring 60 and second ring 64 between a single hinge 32 and a single fastening arrangement 34, double V-band clamp 14 requires less space and can therefore fasten components together in areas with space constraints. For example, because space S between first aircraft component 10 and second aircraft component 12 is small, there may not be sufficient room to attach separate clamps to each of first aircraft component 10 and second aircraft component 12. Using double V-band clamp 14, two separate aircraft components 10 and 12 can be clamped at the same time in the same space, including in the same plane, reducing the amount of space required for clamping the two aircraft components.
- double V-band clamp 14 has only one fastening arrangement 34, and thus only requires one area of access for fastening
- double V-band clamp accommodates clamping in otherwise unreachable or hard to access areas during design, manufacturing, and installation. For example, a user may be unable to get a hand or tool to a far side of a tight space in which components require clamping.
- Double V-band clamp 14 can be positioned such that fastening arrangement 34 is accessible at the near side of the space and a hand or tool is not required to reach the far side of the space.
- double V-band clamp 14 has only one fastening arrangement 34 that requires fastening for clamping both first aircraft component 10 and second aircraft component 12, double V-band clamp 14 allows for easier and faster installation or assembly. Double V-band clamp 14 also has a reduced number of parts and weighs less.
- Space S between first aircraft component 10 and second aircraft component 12 can be reduced as well because neither a hinge nor a fastener is required between first ring 60 and second ring 64, the aircraft components thus taking up less overall volume.
- double V-band clamp 14 has first curved portion 44 and third curved portion 56 and second curved portion 46 and fourth curved portion 58 with V-shaped cross-sections, flanges 18 and 22 and 26 and 30 fit snugly into curved portions 44 and 56 and 46 and 58, forcing first tube 16 and second tube 20 and third tube 24 and fourth tube 28 together in sealing engagement. As a result, clamping with double V-band clamp 14 results in low leakage in high temperature and pressure applications.
- Webs 42 and 54 enhance structural stability of double V-band clamp 14.
- double V-band clamp 14 is stiff enough to clamp both first aircraft component 10 and second aircraft component 12 properly.
- double V-band clamp 14 on first aircraft component 10 and second aircraft component 12 has been discussed using the terms “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right”, “front”, and “back” to describe the orientation shown in FIG.1
- double V-band clamp 14 may be placed, or installed, in any orientation, such as a horizontal orientation or an intermediate orientation, based on the relative positions of first and second aircraft components 10 and 12.
- the components of the double V-band clamp 14 may be in a different orientation than that shown in FIG. 1 and thus the locations of "upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right”, “front”, and “back” may vary.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of double V-band clamp 14A on first aircraft component 10A and separate second aircraft component 12A having a different size.
- First aircraft component 10A includes first tube 16A and second tube 20A.
- Second aircraft component 12A includes third tube 24A and fourth tube 28A.
- Double V-band clamp 14A includes first arm 36A (which includes first curved portion 44A and second curved portion 46A), second arm 48A (which includes third curved portion 56A and fourth curved portion 58A), first ring 60A, and second ring 64A.
- first aircraft component 10A is not equal in diameter to second aircraft component 12A.
- first aircraft component 10A may be about 1.5 inches (3.81 centimeters) in diameter while second aircraft component 12A may be about 2.0 inches (5.08 centimeters) in diameter.
- double V-band clamp 14A has the same structure and function as double V-band clamp 14, except that first curved portion 44A and third curved portion 56A form first ring 60A, which is a different size than second ring 64A formed by second curved portion 46A and fourth curved portion 58A.
- First curved portion 44A of first arm 36A and third curved portion 56A of second arm 48A form first ring 60A. Due to the V-shaped cross-sections of first curved portion 44A and third curved portion 56A, first ring 60A has first inner diameter D1A and second inner diameter D2A. Second inner diameter D2A is greater than first inner diameter D1A. First inner diameter D1A of first ring 60A may be about 1.5 inches (3.81 centimeters). First ring 60A is configured to fit around first tube 16A of first aircraft component 10A and second tube 20A of first aircraft component 10A.
- Second curved portion 46A of first arm 36A and fourth curved portion 58A of second arm 48A form second ring 64A. Due to the V-shaped cross-sections of second curved portion 46A and fourth curved portion 58A, second ring 64A has first inner diameter D3A and second inner diameter D4A. Second inner diameter D4A is greater than first inner diameter D3A. First inner diameter D3A of second ring 64A may be about 2.0 inches (5.08 centimeters). In this embodiment, first inner diameter D3A does not equal first inner diameter D1A, and second inner diameter D4A does not equal second inner diameter D2A. Second ring 64 is configured to fit around third tube 24A of second aircraft component 12A and fourth tube 28A of second aircraft component 12A.
- double V-band clamp 14A can clamp two separate aircraft components 10A and 12A having different sizes at the same time in the same space, including in the same plane. As such, double V-band clamp 14A can be used in areas having space constraints and different-sized aircraft components, which may otherwise require two separate clamps.
- a clamp assembly includes a first arm including: a first hinge end; a first free end; a first web between the first hinge end and the first free end; a first curved portion between the first hinge end and the first web; and a second curved portion between the first free end and the first web; a second arm including: a second hinge end; a second free end; a second web between the second hinge end and the second free end; a third curved portion between the second hinge end and the second web; and a fourth curved portion between the second free end and the second web; a hinge that pivotably connects the first hinge end to the second hinge end; and a fastening arrangement configured to connect the first free end to the second free end when the clamp assembly is in a closed position; wherein the first curved portion and the third curved portion are configured to encircle a first structure when the clamp assembly is in the closed position and the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are configured to encircle a second structure when the clap assembly is in the closed position.
- the clamp assembly of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and/or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and/or additional components:
- the first curved portion, the second curved portion, the third curved portion, and the fourth curved portion each have a V-shaped cross-section.
- V-shaped cross-sections of the first and third curved portions are configured to hold a first flange of a first tube to a second flange of a second tube and V-shaped cross-sections of the second and fourth curved portions are configured to hold a third flange of a third tube to a fourth flange of a fourth tube.
- the V-shaped cross-sections of the first curved portion and the third curved portion are configured to apply an axial load of the first flange toward the second flange, and the V-shaped cross-sections of the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are configured to apply an axial load of the third flange toward the fourth flange when the clamp assembly is in a closed position.
- the axial loads are configured to cause sealing engagement between the first flange and the second flange and the third flange and the fourth flange.
- the fastening arrangement is configured to releasably connect the first free end to the second free end.
- the first web and the second web act as a stiffener for the clamp assembly.
- the fastening arrangement includes: a slot defined by the first free end and the second free end; a bolt positionable within the slot; and a nut positionable on the bolt.
- the bolt is a T-bolt having a portion positionable within an opening in the second free end.
- the hinge includes: a left pin positioned in the first hinge end; a right pin positioned in the second hinge end; and a link connecting the left pin and the right pin.
- the clamp assembly includes a single hinge and a single fastening arrangement.
- a first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and a second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are the same size.
- a first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and a second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are different sizes.
- a first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion has a first inner diameter between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters), and a second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion has a first inner diameter between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters).
- a first ring forced by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and a second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are in the same plane.
- the first arm is a single unitary piece and the second arm is a single unitary piece.
- a method of clamping axially aligned portions of a first structure and axially aligned portions of a second structure includes separating a first free end of a first arm and a second free end of a second arm of a hinged clamp assembly to place the clamp assembly in an open position; positioning the first arm and the second arm of the clamp assembly in the open position around flanges of a first tube and a second tube of the first structure and around flanges of a third tube and a fourth tube of the second structure, the second structure being spaced from the first structure; joining the first free end and the second free end together such that a first curved portion of the first arm and a third curved portion of the second arm encircle the first structure and a second curved portion of the first arm and a fourth curved portion of the second arm encircle the second structure, placing the clamp assembly in a closed position; and connecting the first free end to the second free end at a fastening arrangement.
- Connecting the first free end to the second free end includes positioning a bolt into a slot formed by the first free end and the second free end.
- Tightening the bolt seals the first tube and the second tube of the first aircraft component and seals the third tube and the fourth tube of the second aircraft component.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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- Clamps And Clips (AREA)
Description
- The present disclosure relates to clamps, and in particular, to V-band clamps.
- Within an aircraft, installation of components may require connection to other components via clamping. As such, connecting aircraft components includes fitting clamps into the spaces surrounding such components. Clamps may also need to be able to withstand harsh temperature and pressure conditions. For example, aircraft components can be connected using V-band clamps. However, V-band clamps may be difficult to install for some applications due to space or access limitations.
-
- A clamp assembly is provided as defined by claim 1.
- A method of clamping axially aligned portions of a first structure and axially aligned portions of a second structure is provided as defined by
claim 12. -
-
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a double V-band clamp on a first aircraft component and a separate second aircraft component. -
FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the double V-band clamp on the first aircraft component and the separate second aircraft component taken along line B-B ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a double V-band clamp on a first aircraft component and a separate second aircraft component having a different size. - In general, the present disclosure describes a double V-band clamp, or clamp assembly, that has two rings between a hinge and a bolt, or other fastening arrangement, to join flanges of a first upper aircraft component, or first structure, and flanges of a second lower aircraft component, or second structure, spaced from the first upper aircraft component while only requiring one hinge and one fastening arrangement. As a result, the clamp accommodates smaller spaces, weighs less, has fewer parts, results in faster installation, and eliminates unreachable or hard to access areas. Further, a web between the two rings enhances structural stability of the clamp.
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FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a clamp assembly, or double V-band clamp, 14 onfirst aircraft component 10 and separatesecond aircraft component 12.FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of double V-band clamp 14 onfirst aircraft component 10 and separatesecond aircraft component 12 taken along line B-B ofFIG. 1A. FIGS. 1A and1B will be discussed together. - First aircraft component, or first structure, 10 includes
first tube 16 having first flange 18 (shown in FIG. IB),second tube 20 havingsecond flange 22, and seal 23. Second aircraft component, or second structure, 12 includesthird tube 24 having third flange 26 (shown in FIG. IB),fourth tube 28 havingfourth flange 30, and seal 31. Double V-band clamp 14 includeshinge 32,fastening arrangement 34, first arm 36 (shown inFIG. 1A ) (which includesfirst hinge end 38, firstfree end 40,first web 42, firstcurved portion 44, and second curved portion 46), second arm 48 (which includessecond hinge end 50, secondfree end 52,second web 54, thirdcurved portion 56, and fourth curved portion 58),first ring 60 definingfirst space 62, andsecond ring 64 definingsecond space 66. Hinge 32 includes left pin 68 (shown inFIG. 1A ),right pin 70, andlink 72. Fasteningarrangement 34 includesbolt 74,connector 76, and nut 78 (shown inFIG. 1A ). - First aircraft component, or upper aircraft component, 10 is separated from second aircraft component, or lower aircraft component, 12 by space S.
First aircraft component 10 is parallel tosecond aircraft component 12. In this embodiment,first aircraft component 10 is equal in diameter tosecond aircraft component 12.First aircraft component 10 andsecond aircraft component 12 are positioned within double V-band clamp 14. -
First aircraft component 10 has first tube, or rear portion, 16 at a rear offirst aircraft component 10.First tube 16 is tube-like. In this embodiment,first tube 16 is a duct. In alternate embodiments,first tube 16 may be any suitable aircraft component.First flange 18 is connected at a front end offirst tube 16.First flange 18 has a male profile.First aircraft component 10 has second tube, or front portion, 20 at a front ofupper aircraft component 10.Second tube 20 is tube-like. In this embodiment,second tube 20 is a duct that mates withfirst tube 16. In alternate embodiments,second tube 20 may be any suitable aircraft component that mates withfirst tube 16.Second flange 22 is connected at a rear end ofsecond tube 20.Second flange 22 has a female profile.First tube 16 andsecond tube 20 are separate, axially aligned portions offirst aircraft component 10 having about the same diameter, andfirst flange 18 andsecond flange 22 are shaped to interlock. Whenfirst flange 18 andsecond flange 22 are interlocked, an annular space is formed betweenfirst flange 18 andsecond flange 22 that is radially outward from inner diameters of the tube-like portions offirst tube 16 andsecond tube 20.Seal 23 may be positioned betweenfirst flange 18 andsecond flange 22. -
Second aircraft component 12 has third tube, or rear portion, 24 at a rear ofsecond aircraft component 12.Third tube 24 is tube-like. In this embodiment,third tube 24 is a duct. In alternate embodiments,third tube 24 may be any suitable aircraft component.Third flange 26 is connected at a front end ofthird tube 24.Third flange 26 has a male profile.Second aircraft component 12 has fourth tube, or front portion, 28 at a front ofsecond aircraft component 12.Fourth tube 28 is tube-like. In this embodiment,fourth tube 28 is a duct that mates withthird tube 24. In alternate embodiments,fourth tube 28 may be any suitable aircraft component that mates withthird tube 24.Fourth flange 30 is connected at a rear end offourth tube 28.Fourth flange 30 has a female profile.Third tube 24 andfourth tube 28 are separate, axially aligned portions ofsecond aircraft component 12 having about the same diameter, andthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30 are shaped to interlock. Whenthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30 are interlocked, an annular space is formed betweenthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30 that is radially outward from inner diameters of the tube-like portions ofthird tube 24 andfourth tube 28.Seal 31 may be positioned betweenthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30. - Double V-
band clamp 14 hashinge 32 at a first, or upper, end of double V-band clamp 14 andfastening arrangement 34 at a second, or lower, end of double V-band clamp 14. First, or left,arm 36 extends fromhinge 32 tofastening arrangement 34.First arm 36 is a single unitary piece.First arm 36 may be made of nickel alloy, stainless steel, aluminum, non-metallic material, or any other suitable material.First arm 36 has first hinge end, or upper end portion, 38 connected to hinge 32, and first free end, or lower end portion, 40 connectable tofastening arrangement 34. First, or left,web 42 offirst arm 36 is located betweenfirst hinge end 38 and firstfree end 40. In this embodiment,first web 42 is triangular. In alternate embodiments,first web 42 may be any suitable shape. First curved portion, or upper curved portion, 44 offirst arm 36 is connected tofirst hinge end 38 andfirst web 42 such that firstcurved portion 44 is betweenfirst hinge end 38 andfirst web 42. Firstcurved portion 44 has a V-shaped cross-section. Second curved portion, or lower curved portion, 46 offirst arm 36 is connected to firstfree end 40 andfirst web 42 such that secondcurved portion 46 is between firstfree end 40 andfirst web 42. As such,first web 42 is between firstcurved portion 44 and secondcurved portion 46. In this embodiment, a first, or upper, end of secondcurved portion 46 is also connected to a second, or lower, end of firstcurved portion 44. In alternate embodiments,first web 42 may extend all the way between secondcurved portion 46 and firstcurved portion 44 such that secondcurved portion 46 does not contact firstcurved portion 44. As such, the distance between firstcurved portion 44 and secondcurved portion 46 varies based on the application in which double V-band clamp 14 is utilized. Secondcurved portion 46 has a V-shaped cross-section. - Second, or right,
arm 48 extends fromhinge 32 tofastening arrangement 34.Second arm 48 is a single unitary piece.Second arm 48 may be made of nickel alloy, stainless steel, aluminum, non-metallic material, or any other suitable material.Second arm 48 has second hinge end, or upper end portion, 50 connected to hinge 32, and second free end, or lower end portion, 52 connectable tofastening arrangement 34. Second, or right,web 54 ofsecond arm 48 is located betweensecond hinge end 50 and secondfree end 52. In this embodiment,second web 54 is triangular. In alternate embodiments,second web 54 may be any suitable shape. Third curved portion, or upper curved portion, 56 ofsecond arm 48 is connected tosecond hinge end 50 andsecond web 54 such that thirdcurved portion 56 is betweensecond hinge end 50 andsecond web 54. Thirdcurved portion 56 has a V-shaped cross-section. Fourth curved portion, or lower curved portion, 58 ofsecond arm 48 is connected to secondfree end 52 andsecond web 54 such that fourthcurved portion 58 is between secondfree end 52 andsecond web 54. As such,second web 54 is between thirdcurved portion 56 and fourthcurved portion 58. In this embodiment, a first, or upper, end of fourthcurved portion 58 is also connected to a second, or lower, end of thirdcurved portion 56, the distance between fourthcurved portion 58 and thirdcurved portion 56 ofsecond arm 48 being equal to the distance between secondcurved portion 46 and firstcurved portion 44 offirst arm 36. In alternate embodiments,second web 54 may extend all the way between fourthcurved portion 58 and thirdcurved portion 56 such that fourthcurved portion 58 does not contact thirdcurved portion 56. As such, the distance between thirdcurved portion 56 and fourthcurved portion 58 varies based on the application in which double V-band clamp 14 is utilized. Fourthcurved portion 58 has a V-shaped cross-section. - In this embodiment,
first hinge end 38 andsecond hinge end 50 both have U-shaped cross-sections such that a space is formed betweenfirst hinge end 38 andsecond hinge end 50. In alternate embodiments,first hinge end 38 andsecond hinge end 50 may have any suitable shape. In this embodiment, firstfree end 40 and secondfree end 52 are shaped to form a slot that extends between firstfree end 40 and secondfree end 52. In alternate embodiments, firstfree end 40 and secondfree end 52 may have any suitable shape. - First
curved portion 44 offirst arm 36 and thirdcurved portion 56 ofsecond arm 48 form first ring, or upper ring, 60. Due to the V-shaped cross-sections of firstcurved portion 44 and thirdcurved portion 56,first ring 60 has first inner diameter D1 and second inner diameter D2. Second inner diameter D2 is greater than first inner diameter D1. First inner diameter D1 offirst ring 60 is between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters).First ring 60 defines first space, or upper space, 62.First space 62 is at a center offirst ring 60.First ring 60 is configured to fit aroundfirst flange 18 offirst tube 16 offirst aircraft component 10 andsecond flange 22 ofsecond tube 20 offirst aircraft component 10. More specifically, firstcurved portion 44 and thirdcurved portion 56 have V-shaped cross-sections that holdfirst flange 18 offirst tube 16 andsecond flange 22 ofsecond tube 20. As such,first space 62 is sized to accommodatefirst tube 16 andsecond tube 20 offirst aircraft component 10. - Second
curved portion 46 offirst arm 36 and fourthcurved portion 58 ofsecond arm 48 form second ring, or lower ring, 64. Due to the V-shaped cross-sections of secondcurved portion 46 and fourthcurved portion 58,second ring 64 has first inner diameter D3 and second inner diameter D4. Second inner diameter D4 is greater than first inner diameter D3. First inner diameter D3 oflower ring 64 is between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters). In this embodiment, first inner diameter D3 equals first inner diameter D1, and second inner diameter D4 equals second inner diameter D2. In alternate embodiments, first inner diameters D1 and D3 may not be equal and second inner diameters D2 and D4 may not be equal.Second ring 64 defines second space, or lower space, 66.Second space 66 is at a center ofsecond ring 64.Second ring 64 is configured to fit aroundthird flange 26 ofthird tube 24 ofsecond aircraft component 12 andfourth flange 30 offourth tube 28 ofsecond aircraft component 12. More specifically, secondcurved portion 46 and fourthcurved portion 58 have V-shaped cross-sections that holdthird flange 26 ofthird tube 24 andfourth flange 30 offourth tube 28. As such,second space 66 is sized to accommodatethird tube 24 andfourth tube 28 ofsecond aircraft component 12. In this embodiment,first ring 60 andsecond ring 64 are the same size. In alternate embodiments,first ring 60 andsecond ring 64 are different sizes.First ring 60 andsecond ring 64 are located in a common plane. -
Hinge 32 pivotably connectsfirst hinge end 38 offirst arm 36 andsecond hinge end 50 ofsecond arm 48.Hinge 32 has leftpin 68 positioned infirst hinge end 38 offirst arm 36.Left pin 68 extends through an opening in a front offirst hinge end 38 and an opening in a rear offirst hinge end 38.Right pin 70 ofhinge 32 is positioned insecond hinge end 50 ofsecond arm 48.Right pin 70 extends through an opening in a front ofsecond hinge end 50 and an opening in a rear ofsecond hinge end 50.Link 72 extends betweenfirst hinge end 38 offirst arm 36 andsecond hinge end 50 ofsecond arm 48. More specifically, link 72 is positioned in the space formed byfirst hinge end 38 andsecond hinge end 50.Link 72 is connected to leftpin 68 andright pin 70.Left pin 68 is positioned in an opening extending through a left portion oflink 72, andright pin 70 is positioned in an opening extending through a right portion oflink 72. As such, link 72 connects leftpin 68 andright pin 70 ofhinge 32. Thus, link 72 connectsfirst arm 36 andsecond arm 48. In alternate embodiments, hinge 32 may be any suitable hinge. - Fastening
arrangement 34 can releasably connect firstfree end 40 offirst arm 36 to secondfree end 52 ofsecond arm 48. Fasteningarrangement 34 hasbolt 74 positionable within the slot defined by firstfree end 40 offirst arm 36 and secondfree end 52 ofsecond arm 48. In this embodiment,bolt 74 is a T-bolt.Bolt 74 has a right portion positionable through openings in secondfree end 52 ofsecond arm 48. The right portion ofbolt 74 extends through an opening in a front of secondfree end 52 and an opening in a rear of secondfree end 52. A left portion ofbolt 74 extends through the slot defined by secondfree end 52 and firstfree end 40 such that the left portion ofbolt 74 extends past firstfree end 40. In alternate embodiments, bolt 74 may be any suitable bolt orfastening arrangement 34 may not includebolt 74.Connector 76 is U-shaped and extends from a front of secondfree end 52 around firstfree end 40 to a rear of secondfree end 52. A front end ofconnector 76 is positioned around a front end of the right portion ofbolt 74 and a rear end ofconnector 76 is positioned around a rear end of the right portion ofbolt 74. The left portion ofbolt 74 extends throughconnector 76. In alternate embodiments, fasteningarrangement 34 may not includeconnector 76.Nut 78 is positionable on the left portion ofbolt 74 that extends past firstfree end 40 andconnector 76. In this embodiment,nut 78 is a self-locking nut. In alternate embodiments,nut 78 may be any suitable nut. In alternate embodiments, fasteningarrangement 34 may be any suitable fastening device. - Double V-
band clamp 14 is used to clampfirst tube 16 tosecond tube 20 and to clampthird tube 24 tofourth tube 28.First arm 36 andsecond arm 48, specifically free ends 40 and 52, are separated from each other by pivotingfirst arm 36 and/orsecond arm 48 alongleft pin 68 and/orright pin 70, respectively, ofhinge 32. Separatingfirst arm 36 andsecond arm 48 opens double V-band clamp 14. Thus, double V-band clamp 14 opens like a clamshell. Once double V-band clamp 14 is placed in an open position, double V-band clamp 14 is positioned aroundfirst flange flange 18 andsecond flange 22 offirst tube 16 andsecond tube 20 offirst aircraft component 10 and aroundthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30 ofthird tube 24 andfourth tube 28 ofsecond aircraft component 12. - First
free end 40 offirst arm 36 and secondfree end 52 ofsecond arm 48 are then joined together by moving left arm and/orsecond arm 48 by pivotingfirst arm 36 and/orsecond arm 48 alongleft pin 68 and/orright pin 70, respectively, to place double V-band clamp 14 in a closed position. In a closed position, double V-band clamp 14 hasfirst ring 60 that surroundfirst aircraft component 10 andsecond ring 64 that surroundsecond aircraft component 12. More specifically, firstcurved portion 44 and thirdcurved portion 56 encirclefirst aircraft component 10, and secondcurved portion 46 and fourthcurved portion 58 encirclesecond aircraft component 12. As such,first aircraft component 10 is located infirst space 62, andsecond aircraft component 12 is located insecond space 66.First flange 18 andsecond flange 22 extend past inner diameter D1 offirst ring 60 into a space formed by the V-shaped cross-section of firstcurved portion 44 and thirdcurved portion 56, andthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30 extend past inner diameter D3 ofsecond ring 64 into a space formed by the V-shaped cross-section of secondcurved portion 46 and fourthcurved portion 58. As a result, closing double V-band clamp 14 securesfirst flange 18 andsecond flange 22 together and securesthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30 together. - Once double V-
band clamp 14 is in a closed position, firstfree end 40 is connected to secondfree end 52 atfastening arrangement 34.Bolt 74 is positioned to extend into the slot formed by secondfree end 52 and firstfree end 40.Nut 78 is positioned on a left end portion ofbolt 74, and a wrench is used to movenut 78 closer to firstfree end 40 along threading ofbolt 74, tighteningbolt 74. Asbolt 74 is tightened, secondfree end 52 ofsecond arm 48 and firstfree end 40 offirst arm 36 are drawn closer together. Tighteningbolt 74 clampsfirst tube 16 tosecond tube 20 andthird tube 24 tofourth tube 28. Tighteningbolt 74 also movesfirst flange 18 closer tosecond flange 22 andthird flange 26 closer tofourth flange 30 to sealfirst tube 16 andsecond tube 20 andthird tube 24 andfourth tube 28. More specifically,first flange 18 andsecond flange 22 andthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30 fit snugly intocurved portions first ring 60 andsecond ring 64, respectively. As such, V-shaped cross-sections apply an axial load offirst flange 18 towardsecond flange 22 and an axial load ofthird flange 26 towardfourth flange 30. The axial loads cause sealing engagement betweenfirst flange 18 andsecond flange 22 and betweenthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30. As a result,first tube 16 andsecond tube 20 andthird tube 24 andfourth tube 28 are forced together in sealing engagement. - As a result, fluid flows from
first tube 16 tosecond tube 20, or fromsecond tube 20 tofirst tube 16 without leaking betweenfirst flange 18 andsecond flange 22, and fluid flows fromthird tube 24 tofourth tube 28, or fromfourth tube 28 tothird tube 24, without leaking betweenthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30. Double V-band clamp 14 is particularly useful for high temperature and pressure applications because it is shaped to provide a tight seal and can be made of nickel alloy, stainless steel, aluminum, non-metallic material, or any other suitable material. -
First web 42 andsecond web 54 act as stiffeners, or reinforcing structures, for double V-band clamp 14. Thus, double V-band clamp 14 is capable of withstanding tightening ofbolt 74. As such,first web 42 andsecond web 54 prevent double V-band clamp 14 from bending asbolt 74 is being tightened.First web 42 andsecond web 54 have a thickness that provides proper stiffness for a particular application in which double V-band clamp 14 is being utilized. As such,first web 42 andsecond web 54 may even protrude out as far as a tangent tofirst aircraft component 10 andsecond aircraft component 12 without interfering with other aircraft components. - Double V-
band clamp 14 joinsfirst flange 18 andsecond flange 22 offirst tube 16 andsecond tube 20 offirst aircraft component 10 and joinsthird flange 26 andfourth flange 30 ofthird tube 24 andfourth tube 28 ofsecond aircraft component 12 using asingle hinge 32 and asingle fastening arrangement 34. - Traditional V-band clamps include one ring between a hinge and a fastener, and can be too bulky for some configurations where multiple clamps are needed in a small space. Because double V-
band clamp 14 hasfirst ring 60 andsecond ring 64 between asingle hinge 32 and asingle fastening arrangement 34, double V-band clamp 14 requires less space and can therefore fasten components together in areas with space constraints. For example, because space S betweenfirst aircraft component 10 andsecond aircraft component 12 is small, there may not be sufficient room to attach separate clamps to each offirst aircraft component 10 andsecond aircraft component 12. Using double V-band clamp 14, twoseparate aircraft components - Further, because double V-
band clamp 14 has only onefastening arrangement 34, and thus only requires one area of access for fastening, double V-band clamp accommodates clamping in otherwise unreachable or hard to access areas during design, manufacturing, and installation. For example, a user may be unable to get a hand or tool to a far side of a tight space in which components require clamping. Double V-band clamp 14 can be positioned such thatfastening arrangement 34 is accessible at the near side of the space and a hand or tool is not required to reach the far side of the space. - Additionally, because double V-
band clamp 14 has only onefastening arrangement 34 that requires fastening for clamping bothfirst aircraft component 10 andsecond aircraft component 12, double V-band clamp 14 allows for easier and faster installation or assembly. Double V-band clamp 14 also has a reduced number of parts and weighs less. - Space S between
first aircraft component 10 andsecond aircraft component 12 can be reduced as well because neither a hinge nor a fastener is required betweenfirst ring 60 andsecond ring 64, the aircraft components thus taking up less overall volume. - Because double V-
band clamp 14 has firstcurved portion 44 and thirdcurved portion 56 and secondcurved portion 46 and fourthcurved portion 58 with V-shaped cross-sections,flanges curved portions first tube 16 andsecond tube 20 andthird tube 24 andfourth tube 28 together in sealing engagement. As a result, clamping with double V-band clamp 14 results in low leakage in high temperature and pressure applications. -
Webs band clamp 14. Thus, double V-band clamp 14 is stiff enough to clamp bothfirst aircraft component 10 andsecond aircraft component 12 properly. - While double V-
band clamp 14 onfirst aircraft component 10 andsecond aircraft component 12 has been discussed using the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front", and "back" to describe the orientation shown inFIG.1 , double V-band clamp 14 may be placed, or installed, in any orientation, such as a horizontal orientation or an intermediate orientation, based on the relative positions of first andsecond aircraft components band clamp 14 may be in a different orientation than that shown inFIG. 1 and thus the locations of "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front", and "back" may vary. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of double V-band clamp 14A onfirst aircraft component 10A and separatesecond aircraft component 12A having a different size.First aircraft component 10A includesfirst tube 16A andsecond tube 20A.Second aircraft component 12A includesthird tube 24A andfourth tube 28A. Double V-band clamp 14A includesfirst arm 36A (which includes firstcurved portion 44A and secondcurved portion 46A),second arm 48A (which includes thirdcurved portion 56A and fourthcurved portion 58A),first ring 60A, andsecond ring 64A. - In this embodiment,
first aircraft component 10A is not equal in diameter tosecond aircraft component 12A. For example,first aircraft component 10A may be about 1.5 inches (3.81 centimeters) in diameter whilesecond aircraft component 12A may be about 2.0 inches (5.08 centimeters) in diameter. As such, double V-band clamp 14A has the same structure and function as double V-band clamp 14, except that firstcurved portion 44A and thirdcurved portion 56A formfirst ring 60A, which is a different size thansecond ring 64A formed by secondcurved portion 46A and fourthcurved portion 58A. - First
curved portion 44A offirst arm 36A and thirdcurved portion 56A ofsecond arm 48A formfirst ring 60A. Due to the V-shaped cross-sections of firstcurved portion 44A and thirdcurved portion 56A,first ring 60A has first inner diameter D1A and second inner diameter D2A. Second inner diameter D2A is greater than first inner diameter D1A. First inner diameter D1A offirst ring 60A may be about 1.5 inches (3.81 centimeters).First ring 60A is configured to fit aroundfirst tube 16A offirst aircraft component 10A andsecond tube 20A offirst aircraft component 10A. - Second
curved portion 46A offirst arm 36A and fourthcurved portion 58A ofsecond arm 48A formsecond ring 64A. Due to the V-shaped cross-sections of secondcurved portion 46A and fourthcurved portion 58A,second ring 64A has first inner diameter D3A and second inner diameter D4A. Second inner diameter D4A is greater than first inner diameter D3A. First inner diameter D3A ofsecond ring 64A may be about 2.0 inches (5.08 centimeters). In this embodiment, first inner diameter D3A does not equal first inner diameter D1A, and second inner diameter D4A does not equal second inner diameter D2A.Second ring 64 is configured to fit aroundthird tube 24A ofsecond aircraft component 12A andfourth tube 28A ofsecond aircraft component 12A. - Because
first ring 60A andsecond ring 64A are different sizes, double V-band clamp 14A can clamp twoseparate aircraft components band clamp 14A can be used in areas having space constraints and different-sized aircraft components, which may otherwise require two separate clamps. - The following are non-exclusive descriptions of possible embodiments of the present invention.
- A clamp assembly includes a first arm including: a first hinge end; a first free end; a first web between the first hinge end and the first free end; a first curved portion between the first hinge end and the first web; and a second curved portion between the first free end and the first web; a second arm including: a second hinge end; a second free end; a second web between the second hinge end and the second free end; a third curved portion between the second hinge end and the second web; and a fourth curved portion between the second free end and the second web; a hinge that pivotably connects the first hinge end to the second hinge end; and a fastening arrangement configured to connect the first free end to the second free end when the clamp assembly is in a closed position; wherein the first curved portion and the third curved portion are configured to encircle a first structure when the clamp assembly is in the closed position and the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are configured to encircle a second structure when the clap assembly is in the closed position.
- The clamp assembly of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and/or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and/or additional components:
The first curved portion, the second curved portion, the third curved portion, and the fourth curved portion each have a V-shaped cross-section. - The V-shaped cross-sections of the first and third curved portions are configured to hold a first flange of a first tube to a second flange of a second tube and V-shaped cross-sections of the second and fourth curved portions are configured to hold a third flange of a third tube to a fourth flange of a fourth tube.
- The V-shaped cross-sections of the first curved portion and the third curved portion are configured to apply an axial load of the first flange toward the second flange, and the V-shaped cross-sections of the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are configured to apply an axial load of the third flange toward the fourth flange when the clamp assembly is in a closed position.
- The axial loads are configured to cause sealing engagement between the first flange and the second flange and the third flange and the fourth flange.
- The fastening arrangement is configured to releasably connect the first free end to the second free end.
- The first web and the second web act as a stiffener for the clamp assembly.
- The fastening arrangement includes: a slot defined by the first free end and the second free end; a bolt positionable within the slot; and a nut positionable on the bolt.
- The bolt is a T-bolt having a portion positionable within an opening in the second free end.
- The hinge includes: a left pin positioned in the first hinge end; a right pin positioned in the second hinge end; and a link connecting the left pin and the right pin.
- The clamp assembly includes a single hinge and a single fastening arrangement.
- A first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and a second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are the same size.
- A first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and a second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are different sizes.
- A first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion has a first inner diameter between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters), and a second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion has a first inner diameter between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters).
- A first ring forced by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and a second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are in the same plane.
- The first arm is a single unitary piece and the second arm is a single unitary piece.
- A method of clamping axially aligned portions of a first structure and axially aligned portions of a second structure includes separating a first free end of a first arm and a second free end of a second arm of a hinged clamp assembly to place the clamp assembly in an open position; positioning the first arm and the second arm of the clamp assembly in the open position around flanges of a first tube and a second tube of the first structure and around flanges of a third tube and a fourth tube of the second structure, the second structure being spaced from the first structure; joining the first free end and the second free end together such that a first curved portion of the first arm and a third curved portion of the second arm encircle the first structure and a second curved portion of the first arm and a fourth curved portion of the second arm encircle the second structure, placing the clamp assembly in a closed position; and connecting the first free end to the second free end at a fastening arrangement.
- The method of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and/or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and/or additional components:
Connecting the first free end to the second free end includes positioning a bolt into a slot formed by the first free end and the second free end. - Tightening the bolt to clamp a first tube and a second tube of the first structure together and to clamp a third tube and a fourth tube of the second structure together.
- Tightening the bolt seals the first tube and the second tube of the first aircraft component and seals the third tube and the fourth tube of the second aircraft component.
Claims (14)
- A clamp assembly for encircling a first structure and a second structure, the clamp assembly comprising:a first arm (36) including:a first hinge end (38);a first free enda first web (42) between the first hinge end and the first free end;a first curved portion (44) between the first hinge end and the first web; anda second curved portion (46) between the first free end and the first web;a second arm (48) including:a second hinge end (50);a second free end (52);a second web (54) between the second hinge end and the second free end;a third curved portion (56) between the second hinge end and the second web; anda fourth curved portion (58) between the second free end and the second web;a hinge (32) that pivotably connects the first hinge end to the second hinge end; anda fastening arrangement (34) configured to connect the first free end to the second free end when the clamp assembly is in a closed position;wherein the first curved portion and the third curved portion form a first ring (60) when the clamp assembly is in the closed position and the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion form a second ring (64) when the clamp assembly is in the closed position; characterized in thatthe first curved portion, the second curved portion, the third curved portion, and the fourth curved portion each have a V-shaped cross-section.
- The clamp assembly of claim 1, wherein the V-shaped cross-sections of the first and third curved portions are configured to hold a first flange (18) of a first tube (16) to a second flange (22) of a second tube (20) and V-shaped cross-sections of the second and fourth curved portions are configured to hold a third flange (26) of a third tube (24) to a fourth flange (30) of a fourth tube (28).
- The clamp assembly of claim 2, wherein the V-shaped cross-sections of the first curved portion and the third curved portion are configured to apply an axial load of the first flange toward the second flange, and the V-shaped cross-sections of the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are configured to apply an axial load of the third flange toward the fourth flange when the clamp assembly is in a closed position, and preferably
wherein the axial loads are configured to cause sealing engagement between the first flange and the second flange and the third flange and the fourth flange. - The clamp assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the fastening arrangement is configured to releasably connect the first free end to the second free end.
- The clamp assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the first web and the second web act as a stiffener for the clamp assembly.
- The clamp assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the fastening arrangement includes:a slot defined by the first free end (40) and the second free end (52);a bolt (74) positionable within the slot; anda nut (78) positionable on the bolt.
- The clamp assembly of claim 6, wherein the bolt is a T-bolt having a portion positionable within an opening in the second free end.
- The clamp assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the hinge includes:a left pin (68) positioned in the first hinge end;a right pin (70) positioned in the second hinge end; anda link (72) connecting the left pin and the right pin.
- The clamp assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the clamp assembly includes a single hinge and a single fastening arrangement.
- The clamp assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the first ring (60) formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and the second ring (64) formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are the same size, orwherein the first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and the second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are different sizes; and/orwherein the first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion has a first inner diameter between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters), and the second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion has a first inner diameter between about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters); and/orwherein the first ring formed by the first curved portion and the third curved portion and the second ring formed by the second curved portion and the fourth curved portion are in the same plane.
- The clamp assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the first arm is a single unitary piece and the second arm is a single unitary piece.
- A method of clamping axially aligned portions of a first structure and axially aligned portions of a second structure, the method comprising:separating a first free end of a first arm and a second free end of a second arm of a hinged clamp assembly to place the clamp assembly in an open position;positioning the first arm and the second arm of the clamp assembly in the open position around flanges of a first tube and a second tube of the first structure and around flanges of a third tube and a fourth tube of the second structure, the second structure being spaced from the first structure;joining the first free end and the second free end together such that a first curved portion of the first arm and a third curved portion of the second form a first ring and encircle the first structure and a second curved portion of the first arm and a fourth curved portion of the second arm form a second ring and encircle the second structure, placing the clamp assembly in a closed position; andconnecting the first free end to the second free end at a fastening arrangement, wherein the first curved portion, the second curved portion, the third curved portion, and the fourth curved portion each have a V-shaped cross-section.
- The method of claim 12, wherein connecting the first free end to the second free end includes positioning a bolt into a slot formed by the first free end and the second free end.
- The method of claim 13, further including tightening the bolt to clamp the first tube and the second tube of the first structure together and to clamp the third tube and the fourth tube of the second structure together, and preferably
wherein tightening the bolt seals the first tube and the second tube of the first structure and seals the third tube and the fourth tube of the second structure.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/925,276 US10487963B2 (en) | 2018-03-19 | 2018-03-19 | Clamp assembly and method of clamping |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP3543575A1 EP3543575A1 (en) | 2019-09-25 |
EP3543575B1 true EP3543575B1 (en) | 2022-03-02 |
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EP19163773.5A Active EP3543575B1 (en) | 2018-03-19 | 2019-03-19 | A clamp assembly and method of clamping |
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US (1) | US10487963B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3543575B1 (en) |
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DE102019101936A1 (en) * | 2019-01-25 | 2020-07-30 | Ebm-Papst Mulfingen Gmbh & Co. Kg | Cable magazine |
US11384867B2 (en) * | 2019-03-27 | 2022-07-12 | Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. | Hydraulic hose clamp |
US11458909B2 (en) * | 2020-02-06 | 2022-10-04 | Rosemount Aerospace Inc. | Adapter clip |
EP4112988A1 (en) * | 2021-06-28 | 2023-01-04 | Goodrich Corporation | Clamp assembly |
US20230083941A1 (en) * | 2021-09-15 | 2023-03-16 | Schneider Electric USA, Inc. | Short circuit cable support |
CN114135719A (en) * | 2021-11-10 | 2022-03-04 | 中国航发沈阳发动机研究所 | Non-rooting self-locking duplex clamp |
PL131299U1 (en) * | 2023-03-07 | 2024-03-18 | Sielski Kazimierz Baks Wytwarzanie Osprzętu Instalacyjno-Elektrotech | Cable separator mounted in cable holders of cable routes |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US20190285201A1 (en) | 2019-09-19 |
US10487963B2 (en) | 2019-11-26 |
EP3543575A1 (en) | 2019-09-25 |
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